What is the Verdict on Online Gambling?

There isn’t one, at least not yet. Further study is needed, according to Chairperson Mary Bono Mack. The United States Congressional House Energy and Commerce Committee listened to both sides argue their case on online gambling on October 25th. No legislative actions could be taken until more study is done on the subject.

Those who support legalized online gambling say it is already a reality for many Americans. They are using offshore accounts that are not regulated and could scam them for their money. Besides that, federal and state governments are missing out on the opportunity for more tax money. Joe Barton, legislator for Texas, spoke up that poker is not a game of chance but a game of skill.

On the side against the legalization of online gambling are the state lotteries. They envision lost tax revenue dollars that has already been promised for education. More people would go for online gambling instead of the lottery. Poker Players Alliance Chairman Alfonso D’Amato replied that they are two separate segments of society and the lotteries would not be affected by those who choose to gamble online.

Another issue presented to the committee was the money spent on gambling addiction. The executive director of the National Council on Problem Gambling said he was neutral on the subject but that at least fifty million dollars should be set aside for handling gambling addiction. Another speaker said that by regulating gambling, you can protect families from the harmful effects.

After hearing the speakers on both sides, Mack felt that more study needed to be done on all of the issues raised before further action could be taken.